Mock Trial

A Winning Legacy

Founded in 1990 by Dr. John Vile and Dr. Thomas VanDervort, Mock Trial at MTSU has become an integral part of the Pre-Law curriculum. Since its beginning, MTSU's Mock Trial organization has been recognized as one of
the nation's leading competitors. MTSU Mock Trial consistently performs well at the
national level every year. This has led to several top-ten finishes in the national
championship tournament. In addition to regional and national tournaments in the spring,
teams have competed and excelled in invitational tournaments throughout the fall,
including tournaments at Saint Louis University, Duke, and Eastern Kentucky University
and at MTSU's own invitational tournament, the Mid-South Mock Trial Invitational,
one of the largest of its kind in the U.S.

What is Mock Trial?

MTSU Mock Trial is a student organization that teaches the central proceedings of
trial courts. Students participate as either witnesses or lawyers. Participants learn
to prepare and deliver opening and closing statements, and direct and cross-examinations,
and learn how to argue evidentiary objections. Students also become familiar with
more subtle aspects of trial work such as courtroom appearance and demeanor. Students
are coached by MTSU faculty members and local practicing attorneys.

Who Can Participate?

Mock Trial is open to students of all majors. There are numerous advantages to being involved in Mock Trial. The experience exposes
students to trial proceedings and the American legal system. Mock Trial is also a
great way to determine if you are interested in attending law school and becoming
a trial attorney, which many MTSU Mock Trial students have done. Mock Trial also helps
students practice analytical thinking and hones their abilities to speak and perform
in public. It also teaches the importance of preparation, professionalism, ethical
behavior, and teamwork.

How Do I Sign Up?

Each fall, MTSU offers the class PS 2100: Legal Courtroom Procedure for on hour of credit (The class may be taken up to four times for credit). All students
who are enrolled in this class, which requires no prerequisites, are placed on a team
and are given a role in which they can participate. PS 2100 meets every Thursday night
from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.